the importance of peer support
peer support can be a lifeline for people facing mental health challenges, offering connection, understanding and hope
Dealing with mental health difficulties can be an isolating experience and the feeling of being misunderstood may worsen those struggles. Peer support, where individuals with shared lived experiences offer support to each other, is a way to bridge that gap. It creates an environment where people can feel safe, understood and accepted. Whether through one-on-one interactions or in a group setting, peer support provides an opportunity for people to speak openly about their struggles with others who truly understand.
According to research, 86% of people will experience poor mental health in their lifetime, which means that access to support systems is more important than ever. Peer support plays a crucial role in promoting recovery and wellbeing. By sharing experiences, peers can break down feelings of isolation and stigma, which are often barriers to seeking help. It offers practical advice, empathy and encouragement, reminding individuals they are not alone in their journey. Peer support can be an empowering part of a holistic approach to mental health care.
peer support is only for severe mental illness
Peer support benefits everyone, not just those with severe conditions. Whether someone is dealing with anxiety, depression or stress, peer support offers a space for understanding and connection.
peer supporters must be professionals
Peer supporters are individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges, not necessarily trained professionals. Their value comes from their personal journey and the ability to relate to others facing similar struggles.
peer support replaces professional treatment
Peer support complements professional care. It is not a replacement for therapy or medication but can be a helpful addition, offering emotional support and practical coping strategies from those who’ve been there.
What is peer support?
Peer support is when people with similar lived experiences come together to provide mutual help. It is often informal and based on shared understanding, but many organisations also offer structured peer support groups or initiatives. Whether through face-to-face meetings, phone calls or online chats, peer support fosters an atmosphere of non-judgmental support, promoting openness and personal growth.
how does peer support help mental health?
Peer support can be particularly beneficial for people dealing with conditions such as anxiety, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or bipolar. Knowing that someone else has been through a similar situation, such as being in the armed forces, and come out the other side can provide hope and reassurance during difficult times.
benefits of peer support
- Reduction in stigma: Talking with people who share your experiences can reduce feelings of self-stigma.
- Feeling more connected: Opening up to others who are there to support you can reduce loneliness.
- Enhanced hope, empowerment and recovery orientation: Seeing that others have recovered can foster a sense of hope and encourage people to take proactive steps toward their recovery.
- Practical coping strategies: Peer support offers practical tools and coping strategies.
- Benefits for peer supporters themselves: Peer supporters experience the benefits of increased confidence, social inclusion and sense of purpose.
“I’ve found it’s boosted my confidence. It’s helping me push to do things I’d never thought about before. I’ve had one-to-one help and I go to a men’s group every Wednesday. The group structure has been fundamental to my general wellbeing – knowing that I have the Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday with peer support and even volunteering.”
Read more about how James benefitted from peer support here.
What can you do?
If you or someone you know could benefit from peer support, there are several ways to get involved:
support
Our National Advice and Support Service can help you and people you care for with mental health concerns and money worries.
We can link and signpost you to relevant local and national support, including our own Change Mental Health services, as well supporting with debt, grants and benefits.
The service is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (closed for lunch between 12.30pm to 1.30pm). Contact 0808 8010 515, email advice@changemh.org or fill in the form on the service webpage.
For full details about the service, visit the National Advice and Support Service webpage.
Find out about many of our services using peer support as a tool to improve people’s mental health and wellbeing across Scotland, such as our:
- Resilience and Hearing Voices services in Fife and Tayside
- Carer Support services across Scotland
- Veterans Community Cafe and Signature Project in Edinburgh.
other support
Peer Connects by the Scottish Recovery Network is an initiative that connects people with lived experience of mental health challenges to offer support in their recovery.
